During submandibular gland excision, the surgeon must identify the relationship of the lingual nerve to the submandibular duct. Which best describes this anatomical relationship?
- A Lingual nerve passes below the duct from medial to lateral
- B Lingual nerve passes above the duct from lateral to medial, then loops below it ✓
- C Lingual nerve runs parallel and medial to the duct without crossing it
- D Lingual nerve passes through the substance of the gland before reaching the duct
Correct answer: B. Lingual nerve passes above the duct from lateral to medial, then loops below it
Explanation
The lingual nerve initially lies superior to the submandibular duct, then crosses it from lateral to medial by looping underneath it before continuing forward to the tongue. This is the key surgical relationship during submandibular duct stone removal or gland excision. Options A and C reverse or misstate this relationship.
Reference: Gray's Anatomy, 42nd ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.